✈ Getting from Sofia Airport to Plovdiv

Sofia Vasil Levski Airport (SOF) is located 146 kilometers from the cultural city of Plovdiv. There are four different transfer options to get from Sofia Airport to Plovdiv: taxi, a Sofia Airport transfer, metro and train, or a selection of buses.

The quickest and most relaxing ways to travel to cover the 1 hour and 40 minute journey to Plovdiv are a Sofia Airport taxi or a private transfer. Both transport options can drop you off directly at the door of your hotel.

The cheapest transfer option is to take the metro to the city center and transfer to a regional train for the rest of the trip. This option takes closer to 3 hours but is relatively straightforward, so long as you are comfortable navigating public transport.

Your final option is to take a public bus, although it’s the slowest mode of transport and the least convenient if you have heavy luggage. Two different buses run from Sofia Airport, requiring a connection at the central bus station to reach Plovdiv.

Welcome Pickups offers meet and greet services and a friendly introduction to Sofia at the same price as a regular taxi. Click here to see the cost.

Comparison of the options

PRICE FOR 2 PASSENGERS

OPTION	PRICE	DURATION	AVAILABILITY
Taxi	€99	100min	24/7
Metro	€12.80	180min	06:35–22:35
Bus	€17	180min	07:00–20:00
Welcome Airport Transfer	€108	100min	24/7

How to get from Sofia Airport to Plovdiv by taxi

Getting from Sofia Airport to Plovdiv by taxi is the most convenient way to travel; taxis provide reliable 24/7 service in the safety of a private vehicle. Yellow is the taxi company partnered with Sofia Airport. They provide metered fares for up to four passengers, taking 1 hour and 40 minutes to reach your destination in Plovdiv.

How much is a taxi from Sofia Airport to Plovdiv?

Sofia Airport taxis calculate their fares using a taximeter, based on the time and distance traveled. For a taxi from Sofia Airport to Plovdiv, the price should be around €99 (BGN 193) during the day, and €113.50 (BGN 222) at night.

If you wish to travel with a local English-speaking driver at a fixed rate with no hidden fees, you can pre-book your Sofia Airport transfer with Welcome Pickups.

Cost

€99 (BGN 193)

Trip Duration

1 Hr. 40 Min.

*Rates may vary unless booked in advance.

Convenience

Safety

Value for Money

Taxis are available 24/7 at Sofia International Airport.

Where do I get a taxi from?

You can find a designated taxi rank outside both terminals at Sofia Airport. Simply follow the yellow lines on the floor from the Baggage Claim area in Terminals 1 and 2 to reach the taxi rank. SOF has an exclusive arrangement with the taxi operator “Yellow”.

Convenience

Taxis are a very convenient transport choice, providing 24/7 door-to-door services in the safety and comfort of a private vehicle. They are particularly handy for anyone arriving at night or traveling with children or heavy luggage, as there aren’t any direct routes from SOF to Plovdiv using public transport. The downsides are having to wait and find an available cab, and carrying your luggage to the curb from Baggage Reclaim.

Editor’s Note

Be aware of overcharging taxi drivers in Bulgaria. Some may take longer routes or pretend that their prices are higher; just let them know that you are aware of taxi prices.

Useful Tips

Some taxis in Sofia accept credit card payments and should indicate if they do on their window. However, it is always best to check with your driver beforehand.

Tipping your taxi driver in Bulgaria is common; travelers usually leave a 10% tip.

Make sure that the taximeter has been turned on and switched to the correct tariff before starting your journey to Plovdiv.

How to get from Sofia Airport to Plovdiv by train

The most cost-savvy travel option from Plovdiv to Sofia Airport – and return – is a combined metro and train trip, which takes around 3 hours (not including wait and transfer times).

Firstly, you’ll need to ride the M4 Line (Yellow Line) for 5 minutes to Iskarsko Shose Station, where you can transfer to a train toward Plovdiv for a further 2 hours and 45 minutes.

*Journey times are based on trains running directly to Plovdiv, which can take up to 3 hours, depending on the time of day.

How much is a train ticket from Sofia airport to Plovdiv?

A one-way metro ticket valid for 30 minutes costs €0.80 (BGN 1.60), and a one-way train ticket to Plovdiv Train Station costs €5.60 (BGN 11), bringing the total fare to €6.40 (BGN 12.60).

You can pay for your metro ticket in cash at a ticket machine or by tapping on and off at the blue card readers with your credit or debit card. Train tickets can be bought at the station or online in advance.

Cost

€6.40 (BGN 12.60)

Trip Duration

3 Hrs.

The metro runs every 6-15 minutes and the train runs every 1 to 2 hours.

Convenience

Safety

Value for Money

The metro is available daily from 05:30 to 00:00 and the train is available daily from 06:35 to 22:35.

Where do I get the metro and train from?

The metro station at Sofia Airport is located in Terminal 2; you can find it by following the blue floor signs. If you are arriving at Terminal 1, take the free shuttle bus, which runs every 15 minutes.

Once you arrive at Iskarsko Shose Station, check the departures board for the correct platform.

Convenience

Using the metro and train network for your Sofia Airport to Plovdiv transfer is an excellent option, especially for travelers on a budget. Tickets are cheap, and both the metro and train run smoothly. However, this option does require a changeover, and when you arrive at Plovdiv Train Station, you’ll either have to complete your journey on foot or arrange alternate transportation to your accommodation.

If you’re traveling with heavy luggage or children, your trip will run much more smoothly if you book a private transfer in advance, so that you don’t have to fuss around with timetables or connections.

Timetables

Metro Schedule

Sofia Airport – Iskarsko Shose Station

Metro Map

Train Timetable

Iskarsko Shose Station – Plovdiv Station

Editor’s Note

If you're traveling on a budget and with light luggage, this is your best public transport option.

Useful Tips

Please be aware that travel durations on the train differ between services; some journeys are much longer than others.

Trains in Bulgaria have large overhead compartments which can fit your luggage.

There are no refreshment facilities; it is recommended to bring your own snacks and drinks for the journey.

First class train tickets cost upwards of €7 (BGN 13.80).

Getting from Sofia Airport to Plovdiv by bus

Another transfer option from Sofia Airport to Plovdiv is to take a combined bus trip. Given that this requires at least two transfers and takes longer than all other transport modes, it’s the least convenient way to travel.

Nevertheless, if you wish to take the bus, you’ll first need to travel from Sofia Airport to the city center on the 84 or 184 public bus route, which takes around 40 minutes. This first step requires a transfer through Umbal SV. Anna, before boarding another bus to Tsentralna Gara (Central Bus Station).

Once there, board a local bus to Plovdiv for a further 2 hours. All up, the trip should take roughly 2 hours and 40 minutes, not including time spent waiting or transferring between buses.

*Private bus companies like Arda Tur and Infobus also have a couple of routes that stop at Sofia Airport and Plovdiv, although they are fairly infrequent.

How much is the bus from Sofia Airport to Plovdiv?

You’ll need to purchase two separate tickets for your bus journey. A one-way bus ticket on the airport bus costs €0.80 (BGN 1.60) per person, and the bus from the city to Plovdiv costs €7.70 (BGN 15), bringing the total fare to €8.50 (BGN 16.60).

Cost

€8.50 (BGN 16.60)

Trip Duration

3 Hrs.

Routes 84 and 184 depart every 30 minutes from the airport, and buses from the city center run at least every 30 to 60 minutes.

Convenience

Safety

Value for Money

Bus 84 operates from 05:40 until 23.36 and bus 184 operates between 04:50 and 23.17. Buses departing the city bus station operate daily between 08:00 and 20:00.

Where do I get the bus from?

Buses depart from both terminals at Sofia Airport, from right outside the terminal exit. At the bus station in the city, when you purchase your ticket from the counter, you’ll be given the platform number.

Convenience

While the bus can be a good travel alternative for those on a budget, having to make two transfers after a long flight with luggage is not ideal. Moreover, wait times between buses and reaching your hotel once you arrive in Plovdiv can add significantly more time to your trip duration.

Timetables

Bus 84/184 Timetables

Sofia Airport – Central Bus Station

Plovdiv Bus Timetable

Central Bus Station – Plovdiv

Editor’s Note

Taking the bus should be a last resort. It's the slowest and least convenient choice, and costs more than the metro.

Useful Tips

Tickets need to be purchased using Bulgarian lev.

Luggage is stowed in the luggage compartment under the bus.

It's also possible to take the metro for the first leg of this journey.

Getting to and from Plovdiv to Sofia Airport by private transfer

The best transport option from Sofia Airport to Plovdiv is a Sofia Airport transfer. Welcome Pickups provides reliable door-to-door services around the clock for a personalized and memorable travel experience. This is guaranteed through perks such as:

Meet and greets
Trained English-speaking drivers
Flight monitoring
Guaranteed fixed fares
24/7 customer support
Flexible cancellation policy

You can book and pay for your ride in advance, ensuring a driver will be there to meet you right on time. As your friend on the ground, your driver will provide valuable tips and recommendations on how to get the most out of your trip, as well as point out popular sightseeing spots along the way.

How much is a private transfer from Sofia Airport to Plovdiv?

One of the advantages of booking a private transfer to Plovdiv is knowing the cost of your journey upfront, helping you to budget for your trip accordingly. Unlike a taxi, your fare will include all tolls and surcharges, so you don’t have to worry about any extra costs on the day.

If you’re traveling in a small group of up to 3 people, you’ll pay €108 (BGN 211) for a transfer in a stylish sedan with room for a standard suitcase each. Otherwise, you can arrange a ride in one of our spacious minivans, which can seat either 9 people for €138 (BGN 270) or 12 people for €246 (BGN 481).

We’ve kept our booking process simple, so in less than a minute, you can have your transfer sorted. Either head to our website or download the Welcome Pickups app, enter a few personal details, your flight information, and select a pick-up time.

Cost

€108 (BGN 211.20)

Trip Duration

1 Hr. 40 Min.

*When booked in advance, a driver will be waiting for you on arrival.

Convenience

Safety

Value for Money

Private transfers can be arranged from Sofia Airport 24/7.

Where will my private transfer depart from?

Each terminal at Sofia Airport has an Arrival Hall right after the Baggage Claim area, where your personal driver will be waiting to meet you, holding a sign with your name on it. Following a friendly introduction, your driver will happily lend a hand with your luggage and show you to your pre-selected private vehicle so you can begin your transfer to Plovdiv.

Convenience

A Sofia Airport transfer is the only completely reliable and direct transfer option available between Sofia Airport and Plovdiv. Ideal for families or those on shorter vacations with no time to waste, you can enjoy complete privacy with plenty of room for luggage and stretching out, plus, you can make a pit stop along the way as needed.

Editor’s Note

A private transfer is the only transport option that you can book and pay for in advance, making it the ideal choice for those who like to plan ahead.

Useful Tips

Private transfers are fully personalized and customizable, which means you can make requests for vehicle type and size and baby booster seats at the time of booking.

It's best to book a pick-up time at least 30 minutes after your plane's scheduled arrival. This will allow you to pass through Immigration and Baggage Claim without feeling stressed or rushed.

Your driver will receive a notification if your flight schedule changes. That way, they can adjust your pickup time and still be there to greet you as you land.

Welcome Pickups transfer

Book a trained, English-speaking taxi driver to pick you up at the same price as a regular cab from the line

If you feel more relaxed knowing that somebody is waiting for you, you may as well book a Welcome Pickups transfer. As soon as you arrive at the airport you will be greeted by your driver. He will be waiting for you at the terminal of your arrival with a sign that has your name on it. Your driver will help you out with your luggage and together you will make your way to the vehicle. While he is driving you to your accommodation, the driver can give you some tips and recommendations on what to do during your holidays in Sofia. Our drivers are hand-picked and speak fluent English. No need to worry about miscommunication issues that you may face with the local taxi drivers regarding your destination. Relax and enjoy your ride.

Best drivers

Hand-picked english-speaking drivers

Flight monitoring

Drivers are always on time

Quality support

24/7 email & phone support

Cancel up to 24 hours before the pickup and get an 80% refund

Edit or cancel transfers

DAYTIME

€92.0

NIGHTTIME

€111.0

Same price as a regular taxi from the line

PRICES FOR

Sedan Car

4 pax, 4 pieces of luggage

Book Welcome Pickups transfer

Frequently asked questions

How do I get from Sofia Airport to Plovdiv?

There are four transfer options from Sofia Airport to Plovdiv; you can take a direct taxi or private transfer in 1 hour and 40 minutes, or a combined metro and train, or a combined bus journey in 3 hours.

How much is a taxi from Sofia Airport to Plovdiv?

The cost of a taxi from Sofia Airport to Plovdiv will depend on your exact destination, but you should budget for around €99 (BGN 193 during the day, and €113.50 (BGN 222) at night, for up to four passengers.

How much is the train from Sofia to Plovdiv?

The combined metro and train journey costs €6.40 (BGN 12.60) per person. Metro tickets can be bought at the station using cash or a card, and train tickets can be purchased at the station or online in advance.

Can you fly from Sofia to Plovdiv?

There aren’t any direct flights between Sofia and Plovdiv Airports. If you choose to fly, the journey will take longer and be more expensive than other transport options.

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How to get from Sofia Airport to Plovdiv by taxi

How much is a taxi from Sofia Airport to Plovdiv?

€99 (BGN 193)

1 Hr. 40 Min.

Taxis are available 24/7 at Sofia International Airport.

Where do I get a taxi from?

Convenience

Editor’s Note

Useful Tips

How to get from Sofia Airport to Plovdiv by train

How much is a train ticket from Sofia airport to Plovdiv?

€6.40 (BGN 12.60)

3 Hrs.

The metro is available daily from 05:30 to 00:00 and the train is available daily from 06:35 to 22:35.

Where do I get the metro and train from?

Convenience

Timetables

Metro Schedule

Sofia Airport – Iskarsko Shose Station

Metro Map

Train Timetable

Iskarsko Shose Station – Plovdiv Station

Editor’s Note

Useful Tips

Getting from Sofia Airport to Plovdiv by bus

How much is the bus from Sofia Airport to Plovdiv?

€8.50 (BGN 16.60)

3 Hrs.

Bus 84 operates from 05:40 until 23.36 and bus 184 operates between 04:50 and 23.17. Buses departing the city bus station operate daily between 08:00 and 20:00.

Where do I get the bus from?

Convenience

Timetables

Bus 84/184 Timetables

Sofia Airport – Central Bus Station

Plovdiv Bus Timetable

Central Bus Station – Plovdiv

Editor’s Note

Useful Tips

Getting to and from Plovdiv to Sofia Airport by private transfer

How much is a private transfer from Sofia Airport to Plovdiv?

€108 (BGN 211.20)

1 Hr. 40 Min.

Private transfers can be arranged from Sofia Airport 24/7.

Where will my private transfer depart from?

Convenience

Editor’s Note

Useful Tips

Welcome Pickups transfer

Best drivers

Flight monitoring

Quality support

Cancel up to 24 hours before the pickup and get an 80% refund

Prices

DAYTIME

NIGHTTIME

Sedan Car

Frequently asked questions

How do I get from Sofia Airport to Plovdiv?

How much is a taxi from Sofia Airport to Plovdiv?

How much is the train from Sofia to Plovdiv?

Can you fly from Sofia to Plovdiv?

The best way to arrive in Sofia

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